William Shakespeare: The Tragedy of King Lear

ACT IV. 2. Scene II. Before the Duke of Albany's Palace. (continued)

Alb.
This shows you are above,
You justicers, that these our nether crimes
So speedily can venge!--But, O poor Gloster!
Lost he his other eye?

Mess.
Both, both, my lord.--
This letter, madam, craves a speedy answer;
'Tis from your sister.

Gon.
[Aside.] One way I like this well;
But being widow, and my Gloster with her,
May all the building in my fancy pluck
Upon my hateful life: another way
The news is not so tart.--I'll read, and answer.

[Exit.]

Alb.
Where was his son when they did take his eyes?

Mess.
Come with my lady hither.

Alb.
He is not here.

Mess.
No, my good lord; I met him back again.

Alb.
Knows he the wickedness?

Mess.
Ay, my good lord. 'Twas he inform'd against him;
And quit the house on purpose, that their punishment
Might have the freer course.

Alb.
Gloster, I live
To thank thee for the love thou show'dst the king,
And to revenge thine eyes.--Come hither, friend:
Tell me what more thou know'st.

[Exeunt.]